What M and L mean at wescan.film
Size M is the practical professional scan size for most frames. It gives a strong file for editing, web use, client delivery and normal prints without creating unnecessarily heavy folders. Size L is for selected frames where maximum detail matters: large prints, exhibition work, heavy cropping, publication, portfolio pieces or long-term archive files.
Both options are prepared for serious use. The difference is how much final file size you need for the frame’s purpose.
Choose Size M when the scan is for normal use
- Client galleries, websites, social media and editorial selection.
- Albums, small to medium prints and portfolio proofing.
- Large batches where storage, download speed and cost matter.
- Frames that are useful, but not the final hero image from the roll.
Choose Size L when the frame has long-term value
- Large prints, exhibitions and gallery output.
- Important archive negatives, estate work and once-in-a-lifetime photographs.
- Medium format and large format film where the original holds a lot of real detail.
- Images that need heavy cropping, retouching or careful colour work.
35mm, 120 and large format need different decisions
With 35mm film, Size M is often enough unless the frame is very important or you need a larger print. With 120 film, Size L becomes more useful because the negative holds more detail. With 4×5, 5×7 and 8×10 film, the choice depends heavily on the final output: a modest digital file may not justify the original, while a full archive scan can preserve the value of the sheet.
When in doubt, split the order
The best value is often simple: scan the whole edit at Size M, then scan the strongest frames at Size L. That keeps the order practical while still giving the important images the file quality they deserve.
For a real high-resolution reference, see the 6×7 Portra 400 drum scan sample. For negative film delivery options, read scan-only vs converted files.
Quick recommendation
Use Size M for most professional film scanning. Use Size L for final portfolio images, large prints, archive work and anything you may want to revisit in five or ten years.
